Life as a Professional
Lee Carsley |
In the summer of 2000 at the age of 16, I moved into digs at Derby. Initially
I found it difficult, although Derby is only 45 minutes up the motorway, at
that age and probably because of the closeness of the family, homesickness was
a problem. I spent the first couple of years in the youth team and by the third
year I was training with the first team. In making progress I have to thank
John Peacock, the Academy Director. It also helped that there were a couple
of Brummies at the club – all of which went out of their way to make we
welcome and offer me advice. Lee Carsley was from the same area of Birmingham
as me, and both Dean Strurridge and Darry Powell were a big help.
By now I’d passed my driving test and bought an apartment
in the city – life was very enjoyable and it got better when I was offered
a four-year contract!
I made my debut as a sub in a Carling Cup game in a 3-1 win away to Mansfield,
and in the following game I made my league debut in a 1-0 away win at Palace.
I had a good run in the side… until suffering a broken ankle. After four
months out I returned to first team action against Sheffield United and then
managed to tear a thigh muscle. So my first season, although a general success
was a made very frustrating through injury!
John Gregory – gave me my debut |
George Burley took over from John Gregory the week after my thigh injury –
although it wasn’t until we reported back fro the 2003/4 pre-season that
he got to see me play. I started the season opener – at home to Stoke
– and then was made sub for the following game. I then found myself out
of the squad – something that was obviously very disappointing for me.
I went to the manager and was told that I wasn’t in his immediate plans.
With having made the breakthrough during the previous season my ambitions were
such that I wanted to play first team football. After discussing the situation
we agreed that it would be in my interests to go out on loan.
I joined Southend at the end of October and made my debut at home to Northampton
on the 1st of November 2003. In writing this in February 2004, I can honestly
say that it’s been a great move for me. I’ve played when I’ve
been fit and there’s a good set of lads and a good management team here.
Although I’m more experienced in midfield, I’ve played at fullback
and also centre-back. I’m here until the end of the season and we’ll
see what happens in May. I’m happy and enjoying my football…life
is good!
Roots Hall – home of Southend
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